Animal Caretaker

About the Organization Hope's 2nd Chance Animal Sanctuary houses pets of domestic violence survivors while the survivors are either in shelters or looking for a better situation. H2C provides a temporary, safe, loving, and free environment for the pets, so the survivors know their pets are safe and do not have to worry about them while they are bettering their own lives. We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and compassionate Animal Caretaker who understands that healing begins with safety, consistency, and trust. Position Summary This is not an entry-level animal care position. The Animal Caretaker role is designed for individuals with prior hands-on experience working with animals displaying fear, anxiety, reactivity, trauma responses, or behavioral challenges. The ideal candidate is calm under pressure, highly observant, committed to confidentiality, and capable of reading and responding appropriately to animal body language and stress signals. This position requires emotional maturity, strong boundaries, and a deep respect for both human and animal survivors. Animal Caretakers play a critical role in helping animals decompress, rebuild trust, and prepare for the next stage of their journey. Key Responsibilities Animal Care & Welfare Provide daily care including feeding, watering, medication administration (as directed), cleaning, enrichment, exercise, and monitoring of animals. Observe and document animal behavior, stress levels, appetite, medical concerns, and behavioral changes. Safely handle animals with varying temperaments, including fearful, under socialized, reactive, or trauma-affected pets. Utilize low-stress handling techniques and trauma-informed approaches to animal care. Implement behavioral management plans and enrichment activities as directed. Maintain clean, sanitary, and safe animal living environments. Behavioral Observation & Safety Read and respond appropriately to canine and feline body language and behavioral cues. Recognize early signs of fear, overstimulation, anxiety, aggression, or shutdown behaviors. Follow safety protocols and proper handling procedures at all times. Assist with decompression and transition support for newly admitted animals. Communicate concerns promptly regarding medical or behavioral changes. Confidentiality & Professionalism Maintain strict confidentiality regarding survivor information, foster locations, animal histories, case details, and organizational operations. Understand the sensitive nature of the populations served by Hope's 2nd Chance Animal Sanctuary. Demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and discretion in all interactions. Team Support Work collaboratively with staff, fosters, volunteers, veterinary partners, and community partners. Assist with transport coordination, appointments, events, and other operational needs as required. Support the mission and values of Hope's 2nd Chance Animal Sanctuary in all aspects of the role.

Qualifications Preferred candidates will have:

Previous professional or extensive volunteer experience in animal rescue, sheltering, veterinary care, animal behavior, boarding, or related fields. Strong understanding of canine and feline body language and behavior. Experience working with fearful, reactive, under socialized, or trauma-affected animals. Ability to remain calm, patient, and observant in high-stress situations. Excellent communication and documentation skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Physical ability to lift supplies, clean kennels, restrain animals safely, and remain active throughout shifts. Reliable transportation and dependability.

Preferred but not required:

Experience in nonprofit rescue or crisis-response environments. What We're Looking For We are looking for someone who understands that rescue work is more than feeding and cleaning. It is about helping animals feel safe again. The right candidate recognizes that behavior is communication, healing takes time, and trust must be earned through consistency and compassion. This role is ideal for individuals who are committed to ethical animal care, trauma-informed practices, and protecting the human-animal bond during times of crisis.

Pay:

$14.00 per hour People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person